Egyptian Businesses Unite Together for Palestinian Philanthropy

• Reporters: Basant Ibrahim & Mohamed Salama
• Editor: Farah Samy

A number of Egyptian enterprises have told The Caravan that they are amplifying their efforts to raise funds, awareness, and support through their businesses as platforms of solidarity with Palestine.

Consistent social media campaigns on Instagram, Facebook, and X, in addition to various influencers, have encouraged people to contribute to relief efforts for Palestine.

Activists like Rahma Zein, an Egyptian journalist known for her live confrontation with CNN reporter Clarissa Ward at the Rafah border crossing on October 20, 2023, have raised awareness of the plight of the Palestinian people in Gaza and the West Bank through viral fundraising campaigns and advocacy posts.

Simultaneously, many companies and entrepreneurs have focused on initiatives like donating a portion of their profits and creating products specifically designed to raise funds for those affected by the war in Gaza.

They have also created charitable initiatives to also educate the public about the hardships Palestinians face under occupation.

Assem Mohammed, the owner of a coffee shop called “Secret” in 6th of October City, created a special menu section called “Eat Dessert and Donate”, where all proceeds from each item ordered go directly to Palestinian relief efforts.

“I wanted to find a way for my customers to enjoy a treat while also making a positive impact. Every dessert purchased sends a little love to those in need. It’s a small gesture, but I believe every bit counts,” explained Mohammed.

What Mohammed has done has also earned him new customers who are eager to frequent his establishment because they know they are contributing to a worthy cause while enjoying their favorite sweets. So far, his ‘Eat Dessert and Donate’ initiative has raised over EGP 20,000, significantly increasing orders since the campaign began.

 “It’s amazing how something as simple as enjoying a dessert can help those who are suffering thousands of miles away,” said Mohammed.

Mohammed is not alone—pro-Palestinian entrepreneurial initiatives have spread across Egypt since October 7, 2023.

TBS (The Bakery Shop), for example, has donated 20 percent of its coffee sales to aid relief efforts and has redesigned its cups to feature the Palestinian flag as a gesture of solidarity. Buffalo Burger has also joined the boycott movement by replacing its Coca-Cola and Pepsi beverages with Egyptian alternatives such as soda drink Spiro Spathis, and incorporating the Palestinian flag into its branding. In addition to donations, they actively encourage customers to support the boycott of international brands.

Similarly, Breadfast, a popular delivery service, is contributing a 100 percent of its revenue from special Palestine products to Gaza through the Mersal Foundation, a non-profit healthcare organization.

These products include Kaak Al Quds (Jerusalem), a sesame packed bread, with zaatar (thyme) and olive oil dip and a Palestinian labneh croissant, with all profits directed towards humanitarian aid.

The visibility of these campaigns can be seen in the growing presence they’ve gained on social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram, where users have shared posts and videos highlighting the businesses’ initiatives. Breadfast’s post about its initiatives gained over 100 shares and 1,000 reactions.

Even the health and fitness industry has started to look for ways to provide assistance and relief to Palestinians, and Gazans in specific.

Fitness instructor Mark Melad, for example, said he has found a way to create a space where people can work on their health while also contributing to a greater cause.

He recently launched a “donation-centric” gym, PalesGym, dedicated solely to raising funds for Gaza; all subscription fees go directly to support those affected by the war. Since its opening, PalesGym has raised over EGP 30,000 in donations, with more than 500 members signing up in just the first three months.

“When someone joins PalesGym, they’re not just investing in their fitness; they’re helping to feed families in need,” Melad told The Caravan.

His marketing campaign features powerful slogans such as “You get in good shape, they get food.”

“I believe fitness is about more than just personal gain; it’s about community and compassion. We can all be part of the solution,” he added.

Meanwhile, Ahmad Abdelhameed, a local shoe manufacturer, not only provides financial aid but also offers employment opportunities to Palestinians who have lost their homes.

Abdelhameed’s son Shady recalls how his father’s early struggles shaped his outlook.

“Growing up my father didn’t always have what he has now. He struggled to get to the place where he is. Now, he feels the need to give back, especially to those who are struggling,” the younger Abdelhameed said.

“Offering employment is one of the things my dad does because he would want people to help him if he was in their place.”